The annual Merrie Monarch Festival broadcast by KITV will be shown on Royal Hawaiian Center's eight large plasma screens in the Paina Lanai Food Court from Thursday through Saturday, April 16 to 18.

The Merrie Monarch Festival's hula competition begins Thursday, April 16 with the Miss Aloha Hula solo division. On Friday, April 17, traditional hula kahiko (ancient dance) is on display. On Saturday, April 18, hula auana or modern hula is performed with musical accompaniment, followed by the awards presentations.

"Merrie Monarch" is a moniker associated with King Kalakaua, seventh ruler of the Hawaiian Kingdom, who was a supporter of traditional Hawaiian arts and cultural practices. The festival is held in Hilo, Hawaii, and opens each year on Easter Sunday. Craft fairs, performances, the hula competition and a colorful parade are among highlights.

KITV's live, three-day broadcast begins as 6:30 pm.

Royal Hawaiian Center's cultural director Manu Boyd will join the KITV broadcast crew as color commentator, offering insight to the solo and group performances.

Visitors who are interested in hula can participate in free weekly hula lessons at the center's Royal Grove. For a full schedule of classes, go to www.RoyalHawaiianCenter.com.

Also: Royal Hawaiian Center is offering a free parking promotion, valid through June 30, with 4 hours of free parking with any restaurant or food court validation.